Car Key Replacements
It doesn't matter if it's a simple lock and key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can be costly. auto key replacement to keep an extra key in your wallet.
If you do lose a key, the cheapest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive, but it is a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. Keys of this type are made of metal like steel, brass or a combination of brass and nickel. They are cut with a key duplicator machine, with the original key placed against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned with it to serve as an example. The original key is then cut with a specialized cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are built in the majority of newer automobiles keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and begin it. The chips are located in the ignition or the key head. The transponder transmits signals to the computer in the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen vehicle to start without the owner's keys. If the signal is not in sync the vehicle's signal, it will not start. This is a huge advantage that can discourage car thieves since the likelihood of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your car are greatly reduced.
The drawback of transponder keys is that it is more expensive than a standard flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder is equipped with a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to make and put into a car key. These keys are typically expensive when purchased from a car dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and cheaper transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of keys, and can modify the chip to work with your car on-the-spot for a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder replacement key, be sure to get multiple estimates. The final cost is determined by a variety of factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, the extra features that you can find on the key (such as a remote-control key-fob) and the location you decide to have it copied.
In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder-based key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run, when you value safety and protection. In addition, most modern cars have an immobilizer that doesn't allow them to start if a non-transponder keys is used which is another aspect to take into consideration.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may appear like something from a sci-fi flick, but they are fairly common. They add an extra layer of security for automobiles. These keys are created with specialized key cutting machines and are more difficult to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
In contrast to traditional keys with grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits tooled on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder any way and still work. They are thus more durable and thicker than standard keys.
In addition they can also be used to unlock some high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a particular depth, which matches the codes of the different car manufacturers. The right depth is vital since a wrongly cut blade could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys and cause the key to stop working immediately after being placed into the lock cylinder.
The thicker and more distinctive slits in car keys cut with lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or picked. Furthermore some keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to your car. This means that even if someone creates a duplicate of your car key with a transponder chip, they won't be able to start your car.
Although these extra layers of security may make a laser cut car key more expensive than other kinds, the fact is that they're still much less than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys more quickly than the car dealership.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser cut car key can make a huge difference. A bad blade can easily harm the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder, leaving you with an expensive repair bill. It is crucial to purchase your laser-cut car key from an auto locksmith who sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of replacement car key fob keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles, in addition to laser-cut sidewinder keys. Stop by today and see how we can help save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote Keys
In the past having lost or misplaced your car keys was not a huge deal. You could contact an locksmith, receive an alternative and drive away. Nowadays, however, automobiles are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys can be harder to replace and even more difficult for thieves to copy. It is now more expensive to replace a lost car key.
The cost of replacing a key will vary according to the type. For car key replacements , you can have one made for $10 at a hardware store, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to visit you and make one right there.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder with switchblade or transponder with remote start to the dealership to be repaired. This can be expensive and you might need to wait a long time for the manufacturer to send you the new key.
Like any other electronic device keys for cars will cease to function for no apparent reason. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be caused by an ineffective battery or water in the key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. If you notice that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it before contacting an auto locksmith.
You should also be aware that your key fob can only function if you are within the range of the vehicle. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob with your person at all times, and to not leave it in your pocket unless you're sure that you can return it promptly.
The most common method of losing the car key is through not locating it or dropping it. This could cause the key to break or become stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have a spare.